PREVALENCE OF NECK PAIN AMONG BANK WORKER IN PESHAWAR: CROSS SECTIONAL SURVEY

Introduction: Neck pain is a prevalent musculoskeletal disorder that affects individuals in various professions, including bank workers. Understanding the prevalence and associated risk factors of neck pain in this occupational group is important for implementing preventive measures. Materials & Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2014 to April 2015 among bank workers in Peshawar. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 150 bank workers from different banks to collect data on the prevalence of neck pain. Results: The study found that the prevalence of neck pain among bank workers was 51.3%. The prevalence was higher among female bank workers (77.77%) compared to male workers (63%). Risk factors associated with neck pain included improper posture while working, long work durations, repetitive tasks, and repeated neck movements. Conclusion: This study highlights the high prevalence of neck pain among bank workers and suggests that factors related to job type, job design, and job demands may contribute to this issue. The findings underscored the importance of addressing these risk factors and implementing interventions to prevent and manage neck pain in the banking sector. Background: Neck pain (NP) is one of the most commonly reported musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), especially in occupations that involve prolonged sitting and repetitive movements. Bank workers are particularly vulnerable due to their static postures, extensive computer use, and high job demands. Unaddressed, NP can significantly impact productivity and quality of life. Understanding its prevalence and associated occupational risk factors is essential to designing effective preventive and ergonomic interventions. Objective: To determine the prevalence of neck pain and identify associated risk factors among bank workers in Peshawar. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out over five months, from November 2014 to April 2015, involving 150 bank workers selected via convenience sampling from various banks in Peshawar. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire, which was pre-tested through a pilot study. Participants included both male and female employees aged 25–60 years, with at least one year of work experience. Individuals with a history of major trauma or spinal deformities were excluded. Descriptive statistics were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0. Results: Of the 150 bank workers surveyed, 132 (88%) were male and 18 (12%) female, with a mean age of 31.88 ± 6.21 years. The overall prevalence of neck pain was 51.3% (n=77), higher among females (77.7%) than males (47.7%). Regarding onset, 7% experienced neck pain in the first year of work, 44% within 2–5 years, 19.3% between 6–15 years, and 6.7% after 16 years. Reported risk factors included repetitive tasks (32%), overtime work (23.3%), poor posture (18.7%), repetitive neck movements (15.3%), and working with a bent neck (10.7%). Conclusion: The study revealed a high burden of neck pain among bank workers, with notable gender differences and multiple occupational risk factors. These findings emphasize the need for ergonomic interventions, employee training, and preventive strategies in banking workplaces.